I was the kind of child who easily got lost in the mall or at the state fair. I would walk behind my mother and sisters, then get distracted by the shiny, exciting things around me.
Awaking from my distraction, I would suddenly realize I was standing among strangers in an unfamiliar place. A horrific realization that I was lost would overcome me, and those flashy distractions suddenly provided no comfort. I wanted only one thing: to be reunited with my mom.
To a young child, the outside world can seem like a scary place full of dangers. In such a place, the child finds comfort walking tight against a parent’s leg. They feel an even greater calm when their hand is held tightly in their parent’s hand. The presence of the parent is enough to provide safety and strength in unfamiliar places.
David’s Wilderness Sanctuary
While King David lived in the wilderness to escape his enemies, he was separated from the comforts of Jerusalem, the tabernacle, and the people he loved. The comforting thought of God’s presence allowed him to endure this painful separation from the sanctuary (a holy place of safety and worship).
Psalm 63 describes the intense yearning David had for a relationship with His heavenly Father:
- He pledged his personal allegiance (loyalty) and relationship with God.
- He sought God’s companionship early in the morning.
- He hungered and thirsted for God just as a desert traveler thirsts for water from deep within his being (v.1).
- He sought God’s presence in the sanctuary to see His power and glory, praising God for His wondrous majesty (v.2-5).
- He felt completely satisfied, as if he had enjoyed a rich, filling dinner, because of God’s companionship (v.4).
- He went to sleep meditating on God and His goodness (v.6).
Resting in the Shadow of His Wing
Even in the dangers of the wilderness, being hunted like a wild animal by his enemies, David could rest in comfort. He remained in the shadow of God’s wing because he followed close behind his loving Father and held tightly to His hand (v.7-8).
David knew that the hand protecting him would also bring justice to those who sought to kill him (v.9-10) and protect all who sought His divine care (v.11).
Finding Our Way Back
If we are feeling lost from God, we need to remember that sin will never provide true comfort—only alienation (separation). When we are distracted by sin or the concerns of this world, we must seek God in His word, gather among His people, and draw close to Him in prayer.
We will know safety and comfort again the moment we stop wandering and hold tight to His hand. We will sleep safely in the shadow of His wing, satisfied with the fullness of His presence.
Private Reflection Journal
What is one thing from this study that you can apply to your life today? Jot down your thoughts below.